Together, we can inspire the nation’s next generation of cultural and environmental stewards by

instilling them with curiosity about natural wonders,
furthering their understanding of historic events, and
fostering their appreciation for diverse cultural heritage.

Every Kid in a Park is a movement designed to give every fourth grader the opportunity to experience the living classroom of America’s national parks and historic sites. Between the ages of 9 and 11, kids are most open to learning about the world around them; yet, so many spend more time sitting in front of a screen than exploring environments that foster deeper learning and fulfillment. And most American families live in cities, without access to safe outdoor play areas. Beginning in the 2015 school year, these young Americans are eligible for a pass granting them—and their families—FREE entry to more than 2,000 federally managed lands and waters.

Research shows that children ages 9 to 11 are in the midst of a particularly unique developmental stage. During which, they form a more concrete understanding of how the world works, they are more receptive to new ideas, and they are most likely to have positive attitudes about nature and the environment. By focusing efforts specifically on fourth graders, the initiative aims to ensure kids have the opportunity to visit and enjoy federal lands and waters during this developmental stage.

At sites that charge per vehicle, the Every Kid in a Park pass admits the fourth grade pass owner and the accompanying passengers in a private, non-commercial vehicle. At sites that charge per person, the pass admits the pass owner and up to three accompanying adults (entering by foot or bike). Please note that fourth graders must be present at entry.

Fourth graders can obtain a paper pass for free entry into all federal lands and waters by visiting www.everykidinapark.gov. Fourth graders can then exchange the paper pass for a durable plastic pass at select participating sites. Then Voila! You are a member of Every Kid in a Park.

Educators can also visit www.everykidinapark.gov to obtain paper passes for each of their students by navigating to the educator section.